Living in the Present

I just spent a really nice day and a half back in Ames, IA. Dan and I went home to see a good friend one last time before he goes to Officer Candidacy School for the Navy. We also got to spend all day today with his mom and brother. I hadn't seen them in a while, so it was great to catch up. Dan's mom, Sheri, does a lot of reading and studying of leadership and she shared some great advice with me today: Stop worrying about tomorrow and live for today! This is not new advice. I've heard this advice several times in my life and I have given this advice several times in my life and I just needed a reminder. I have been worrying and re-worrying about my life this coming fall. I am applying for teaching jobs and they are very difficult to come by in Madison. I know what you are thinking: "Madison is a huge city, there have got to be tons of teaching jobs!" But remember, for all the tons of teaching jobs, there are tons of teachers. I have been feeling bummed because I haven't been called for any interviews yet and because I have some things working against me. First of all, I don't have a WI teaching license yet, I am applying for one, but right now all they see is that I hold an IA license, so that puts me lower in the ranking. Second, my license is to teach music and so far, only 3 music jobs have opened in the area and the chances of those positions being filled internally are pretty high. But, Sheri reminded me that I am doing all I can do and now it is just a waiting game. These things have a way of working out for the best! She also reminded me of all my options. I have been focusing in on the teaching option (which is my favorite), but Sheri pointed out that I have applied for a great promotion within my current job and that I have a steady job. Things aren't all that bad! Sometimes just having someone else say these things suddenly makes them make sense. I am going to try to look at this job situation one day at a time and knowing I have done and am doing all I can and just leave the rest up to my Greater Plan! This was a good day! Until next time...